For me it's a combination of many of the options. Money is always something to consider, although generally not the deciding factor. RL events on the same weekends have been a problem many times. I can't tell you how many weddings invitations have foiled my plans to go to Gen Con. This year I'm skipping my sister's wedding to attend. It is a significant distance to travel. 21 hours by road, or two flights by air.
This is my first Indy Gen Con, and third overall.
This is my first Indy Gen Con, and third overall.